Minister for Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, has urged the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to exercise common sense in law enforcement. This call comes after a viral video surfaced, allegedly showing a woman being fined $150 for not presenting her e-transport card to an LTA officer in Ra.
In an interview with Fiji One News, the Minister emphasized the need for the LTA to prioritize pressing issues like road safety, reckless driving, and driving under the influence. He mentioned that he immediately contacted the CEO of the LTA to discuss the incident and the broader challenges related to the e-ticketing system, particularly concerning the availability of top-up facilities.
Tuisawau highlighted the importance of understanding the specific circumstances faced by individuals living in rural areas and the elderly, advocating for a more empathetic approach from LTA officers. He pointed out that the current focus should be on addressing more serious problems such as road fatalities and drunk driving.
Additionally, Tuisawau condemned the behavior of intoxicated individuals causing disturbances on public transport, referencing another viral incident involving a man harassing a woman on a bus. He called on the public to take responsibility for ensuring the safety of passengers.
In response to public concerns regarding the e-ticketing and enforcement of regulations, LTA CEO Irimaia Rokosawa acknowledged the challenges faced by some members of the community, especially in rural regions. To address these issues, the LTA is working with vendors and stakeholders to enhance the e-ticketing system and ensure better access to top-up facilities.
Rokosawa also assured the public that the LTA is taking feedback seriously and is committed to improving the user experience for all passengers. A review of enforcement strategies is planned to make sure regulations align with community needs.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka commented on the situation, supporting the LTA officer’s actions as lawful, while also advocating for a reasonable application of those laws.
This situation highlights a crucial intersection of law enforcement and public safety, illustrating the significance of adapting regulations to better serve diverse community needs, especially in areas with limited resources. Hopefully, the ongoing discussions will foster a more user-friendly and effective transportation environment in Fiji.
In summary, this incident has sparked important conversations about ensuring that law enforcement aligns with the realities faced by the public, especially those in rural regions. The collaboration between the LTA and community stakeholders may lead to positive changes that enhance safety and accessibility in public transport for all Fijians.
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